Are you heading out to shop for dresses with your bridal party? Excitement is definitely in the air—after all, the big day is on the horizon! But let’s be honest: alongside all the fun, there can be a little nervous energy too, especially for the bride.
Everyone wants the dress shopping experience to be light-hearted, fun, and full of those “say yes to the dress” moments. The reality? It takes a little planning to make sure things run smoothly. To help you avoid common pitfalls and get the most out of your day, we’ve put together some top do’s and don’ts.
✅ DO: Schedule Ahead of Time
Bridal salons fill up fast, and walk-ins aren’t always an option. Be sure to book your appointment well in advance. Not only does this guarantee your spot, but it also ensures your entire bridal party is available for the big try-on session.
✅ DO: Set a Budget
Before your appointment, take a moment to research the average cost of bridal and bridesmaid dresses. Having a clear budget range and sharing it with your group helps manage expectations and avoids awkward surprises later. It also makes shopping more focused and stress-free.
✅ DO: Have a Vision
It’s helpful to come in with a general idea of what you’re looking for—think colors, fabrics, dress lengths, and level of formality. Ask your bridal party how they feel about different styles, too. When everyone feels confident and comfortable, the day is that much more special.
✅ DO: Make It Fun
Dress shopping is about more than just the outfits—it’s a celebration! Plan a little extra fun into the day. Grab coffee, take cute group photos, and enjoy the moment. These are memories in the making.
❌ DON’T: Bring Too Many People
While it’s tempting to include everyone, too many opinions can make the process overwhelming. Keep your group small and bring those who are genuinely supportive and aligned with your vision.
❌ DON’T: Expect One Style to Suit All
Every person in your bridal party is unique. What flatters one might not work for another. Instead of insisting on a single dress style, consider coordinating styles in the same color or fabric that flatter each individual.
❌ DON’T: Let Drama Take Over
Tensions can flare when opinions differ, but don’t lose sight of what this day is really about—celebrating love and friendship. Keep the mood positive and steer the focus back to creating beautiful memories.
❌ DON’T: Make It All About the Dress
Yes, the dress matters—but so do the people wearing them. Prioritize inclusivity, listen to everyone’s thoughts, and make sure your bridal party feels heard. The experience should feel special for everyone, not just the bride.
Need Help Planning the Perfect Dress Shopping Day?
Dress shopping should be one of the most exciting and memorable parts of wedding planning—and we’re here to help make it just that.
At Sposabella Bridal, we offer the largest showroom in Illawarra and the South Coast, featuring a carefully curated collection of stunning bridal and bridesmaid gowns to suit every body type and style.
Let us help you plan a seamless, stress-free shopping day your whole bridal party will love. Book your appointment today at www.sposabellabridal.com.au and make your dress shopping experience truly unforgettable.
